Natural Methods For Preventing Fleas In Dogs

Remember, Natural Products focus on Preventing, Not Eliminating! Depending on the severity of your flea problem, it may take more work some years than it does others. You may find that some of these remedies lose their effectiveness over time, and no single method will work 100% so it may be necessary for you to combine a few. In cases of severe flea infestation, you may even have to start with a chemical pesticide to lessen the problem, before switching to an all natural regime.

Each of these methods works best in conjunction with a flea or parasite protection prescribed by a veterinarian. Treatments such as Revolution are not only flea protection, but will also provide a more broad scope of care;

Prevents Heartworm Disease

Kills Adult Fleas

Prevents Flea Eggs From Hatching

Prevents & Controls Flea Infestations

Treats & Controls Ear Mites

Treats & Controls Sarcoptic Mange

Controls American Dog Tick Infestations

Now, Here Are 9 Natural Tips For Flea Prevention!

Tip #9 - Outdoor Difficulties
If your dog spends alot of time outside, it will be more difficult for you to control fleas naturally, as they may already be strongly established in your yard, and possibly in your house. You may need to alternate methods used in the yard, and in the house.

Tip #8 - Lather, Rinse, Repeat
A simple rinse with cool water should loosen and even rid your dog of a few of their fleas. However, water alone will not repel fleas; you will require a shampoo with flea repelling ingredients such. Cedar, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Citrus-infused shampoos are a good choice for keeping fleas under control.

Tip #7 - Comb It Out
Using a flea comb will allow you to physically pull the fleas off of your dogs body. You will need to ensure that you get as close to the skin as possible, but the comb will most likely pull on your dogs hair, so work slowly and gently. Make sure there is a bowl of soapy water beside you so you can drown the fleas as you remove them. Concentrate on areas fleas like to hide; the groin, armpits, and the base of the tail.

Tip #6 - Go To The Groomer
If you have a dog with longer hair, flea combing will be difficult. You might want to consider having their hair cut short for flea season.

Tip #5 - Don't Forget The House
Fleas lay eggs. These eggs are usually found in your dogs bedding, and deep in your carpet. This means that cleaning and combing your dog will not treat the entire flea population, so you need to ensure you clean and treat your household and yard as well.

Tip #4 - Vacuum
While dealing with fleas, you will need to be very diligent in cleaning both the interior and exterior of your house. You may want to have your carpets cleaned professionally to remove most of the deposited eggs and larvae. However, eggs and cocoons can be in corners, and remain dormant for a surprisingly long time. You will need to vacuum every surface of your house every few days and ensure that you dispose of your vacuum bag at least once a week. You will need to wash all of your dogs bedding almost as often.

Tip #3 - Home Remedies
One home remedy that is suggested is sprinkling Borax (a boric-acid like product usually sold as laundry detergent) on your carpets. Borax works to dry out fleas outer body and kills the larvae and eggs that are in your carpet. This product is very strong and you should test an area of your carpet first, as it can abrade carpets. Be very careful using Borax around your dog. Before sprinlking the Borax, vacuum all of your floors well, and then make sure that the powder has enough time to sink deep into the carpet before you vacuum again.

Tip #2 - Attack The Yard
You will need to ensure your yard is kept free of debris, as this will reduce the number of places where fleas can hide. Planting certain herbs such as; Lavender, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Marigold and Citrus should make your yard less interesting to fleas.

And finally,

Tip #1 - Consult Your Veterinarian
Be sure you consult your veterinarian before using any products to control fleas, even those labeled as 'natural' Always err on the side of caution, and ask before using something around your home, family, and pets.